Hidden

in the high, rolling hills of northeast Iowa is a mystery veiled from the view of the average tourist, but available to those who are willing to go the extra mile to seek out one of America's hidden mysteries. Largely unknown to all but the most experienced archaeologists and historians specializing in North American archaeology and history, the Effigy Mounds represent an as yet unsolved mystery of America's peculiar past. In Part I of our two part series on Iowa's Effigy Mounds, we will try to uncover some of the answers behind these ancient enigmas.

The mystery of the Effigy Mounds began at the end of the last Ice Age, some 11,000-13,000 years ago. Over a period of hundreds of thousands of years before that time, during a period in Earth's ancient history known as the Pleistocene epoch (2,000,000-9500 b.c.), glaciers ruled over most of North America. During this epoch, which actually lasted about two million years, these massive, moving continents of snow and ice thousands of feet thick slowly carved out the beginnings of what would later be known as the Upper Mississippi River Valley. By the end of the last Ice Age, the melting waters of the glaciers had completed the job, forming what we now know as the headwaters of the Father of Waters the Mississippi River.1

The same glaciers that had carved out the Upper Mississippi River Valley also provided passage for the ancestors of the first Native Americans to cross over from Asia into North America. These "Paleo-Indians" of the Paleo-Indian Period (9500-7500 b.c.) were likely following the migrations of such "megafauna" as the mastodon, the mammoth, and the giant elk, and the many other large animals typical of the late Pleistocene that richly provided them with all of their daily needs. Unfortunately, we know little of these ancient peoples, as they were nomadic, leaving behind little evidence of their existence. As Dennis Lezendorf explains in Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National Monument, "Knives, bone tools, drills and scrapers have been found, but the archaeological record from the PaleoIndian Period is sparse in the Upper Mississippi River Valley." 2
A Paleo-Indian. These ancient ancestors of our modern Native Americans migrated to North America via the Bering Straits roughly 12,000 years ago, near the end of the last Ice Age.

During the Archaic Period (7500-500 b.c.), these early Native Americans Point" gradually converted from being primarily nomadic hunter-gatherers to living spearhead typical of the communally in fixed campsites. These campsites were usually close to foodsources such as rivers or good hunting grounds, and the choice of which Paleo-Indian Period. campsite would be occupied depended on the season and upon the availability of food. However, by the Late Archaic Period (2500-500 b.c.), early Native Americans began to get involved more in agriculture and trade with neighboring tribes, and started to develop the first trappings of civilization. By the end of the Archaic Period (around 500 b.c.), early Native Americans had begun to develop distinct familial and tribal identities, as well as religious and political systems, as is evidenced by their increasingly elaborate methods of burial. As they began to become settled in the Upper Mississipi River Valley, these early Native Americans developed beliefs that reflected what they saw around them. Local wildlife, natural forces, and the great river that provided rich fishing and a means for communication and trade with other Native Americans all became prominent in their beliefs. As they began to settle into the land and become familiar with its ways, this collection of scattered, disorganized beliefs gradually grew into an organized belief system. This system explained how the world worked, including views both of life and of the afterlife.

A "Clovis

Paleo-Indian Period Archaic Period Early Archaic Middle Archaic Late Archaic

9500-7500 b.c. 7500-500 b.c. 7500-5500 b.c. 5500-2500 b.c. 2500-500 b.c.

Woodland Period 500 b.c.-1250 a.d. Early Woodland 500-100 b.c. Middle Woodland 100 b.c.-600 a.d. Late Woodland 600-1250 a.d.
(Effigy Moundbuilders)

Oneota Period

1250-1600 b.c.3

The Woodland Period (500 b.c.-1250 a.d.) was a period of unusual stability in the way of life of the Native Americans of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. Though they would still change camps in fall and winter, moving to rock shelters to protect themselves from the extremes of wind and cold, they began more and more to take on the trappings of civilization. During the Woodland Period, Native Americans began to make significant progress in agricultural development, started staking out good hunting and fishing areas instead of following migrating herds, and even began to make pottery and engage in trade with neighboring cultures via the Mississippi
Woodland Period Native Americans. Image from The American Woodland Indians (Men-At-Arms, No 228) .

River and its tributaries. It was during this time of unusual stability that Native Americans of the Upper Mississippi River Valley began to become truly civilized and, as a result, they now had the time and resources to invest in such luxuries as developing complex burial systems for their dead the very first burial mounds.
A Woodland Period bowl. Image from Beloit College's Logan Museum.

Over the nearly 2,000 years of the Woodland Period, Native American burial mounds were built in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from simple, circular shapes to complex "effigy" shapes. These mound types gradually evolved over time, and were used for both burial and ceremonial purposes. Conical Mounds (500 b.c.-1250 a.d.) Conical mounds are mounds that are circular in shape. The most common and easiest to build, they once numbered in the thousands, and could be found scattered throughout the entire Upper Mississippi River Valley. Conical mounds were typically used for burial, but were likely also used for religious, political and/or familial purposes. Conical mounds were most typical of the Early Woodland Period (500-100 b.c.), but were of course built throughout the entire Woodland Period (500 b.c.-1250 a.d.). Linear Mounds (100 b.c.-600 a.d.) Linear mounds began to be developed during the Middle Woodland Period (100 b.c.-600 a.d.). Though some literature on the subject claims that linear mounds were used for burial purposes, Lezendorf disagrees, stating, "Linear mounds were not used for burial but may have been used to show connections between various groups buried in the conical mounds. With little to no evidence in the linear pattern, archaeologists have to speculate on their purpose."4 According to Lezendorf, the linear mounds most likely served to help organize the various conical mounds, perhaps to associate the burial mounds of various family members. However, it is possible some linear mound burials do exist, still awaiting discovery, so the question of the purpose of the linear mounds is still open to debate.

Compound Mounds (100 b.c.-600 a.d.) Compound mounds are essentially a combination of conical and linear mounds. Compound mounds did contain burials, combining aspects of conical burial mounds and the apparently organizational function of linear mounds. Assuming that linear mounds were indeed developed to associate various mounds or mound The four types of mounds, clockwise, from top right: groups, compound mounds were likely an conical, linear, effigy, compound. Image adapted from innovation in mound building design Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National intended to more efficiently link together Monument the burial mounds of several generations of family members. Compound mounds were thus a logical evolution of mound building during the Middle Woodland Period. Effigy Mounds (600-1250 a.d.) Effigy mounds began to appear during the Late Woodland Period (600-1250 a.d.). Effigy mounds were identical in function to conical mounds, but in form they were far more complex, emulating the shapes of numerous types of animals including but not limited to birds, bear, deer, bison, lynx, turtles, panthers and/or "water spirits".5 As was discussed previously, the creation of effigy mounds likely reflected Native American religious

beliefs, beliefs in which wildlife apparently figured prominently. In the area of northeast Iowa that contains Effigy Mounds National Monument, birds and bears make up all of the known effigy mounds, though effigy mounds of the other listed types can be found in southeastern Minnesota, southern Wisconsin, and northern Illinois as far as Lake Michigan.

Effigy Mounds National Monument contains most of the Woodland Period burial mounds remaining in northeast Iowa. Located near Harper's Ferry, Iowa and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a very well designed and organized tribute to northeast Iowa's ancient mound builders. Founded in 1949 by Presidential Proclamation, the park contains 13 miles of trails offering easy access to nearly all of the mounds. It is divided into two main sections: the "North Unit", and the "South Unit", which are physically separated from each other by the natural barrier of the Yellow River.

The North Unit is the larger of the two divisions, and includes the most mounds and trails. The main trail in the North Unit provides views of numerous mounds of all types, and several side trails branch off the main trail to afford visitors access to additional mound groups and several beautiful views of the Mississippi River. These secondary trails include Fire Point Trail Loop, The Twin Views Side Trail, The Third Scenic View Side Trail, and the Hanging Rock Trail.

As one leaves the Visitor's Center to begin hiking the sylvan beauty of the main trail, they are confronted almost immediately by a group of three 2,000-year-old mounds only 150 feet from the start of the trail. One of these mounds was found to contain about a dozen bundle burials, and was also rich in a number of ancient artifacts: "Besides burials, a copper breastplate and shells from the Gulf Coast, ceremonial obsidian points from the Rocky Mountains, and Knife River flint from North Dakota were found in the mound."6 A second mound also once contained an altar where cremated bones had been placed as part of a ritual burial practice common to the Middle Woodland Period. The third mound, unfortunately, was partly destroyed by the creation of a logging road, but it has since been reconstructed. The next half-mile of hiking is uphill and fairly difficult, as the majority of the mounds to be found in the monument are located on the blufftops on the west side of the Mississippi River. After visitors negotiate this zig-zaggy, uphill trail, the ground levels and they are soon rewarded with a clear view of two compound mounds and, further on, the beautiful "Little Bear" mound.

The Fire Point Trail Loop is the most popular trail as it is the most accessible and the shortest, being only two miles in total length from the Visitor's Center and back again. The Fire Point Loop Trail actually overlaps the North Unit Trail for much of its early length, and the Visitor's Center has a nice guide specifically covering the Fire Point Trail and its features. These features, besides those already described, include: Little Bear Mound "Little Bear" mound, now outlined by gravel and small stones for ease of viewing, was built around 1,000 years ago, near the end of the Woodland Period, during the era of the "Effigy Moundbuilders". The Little Bear Mound is 80 feet long and 40 feet wide, but only a 2-3 feet tall at it highest point. It contains no burials, but layers of charcoal remnants were found at its heart. This indicates that the Little Bear Mound was once adorned with ceremonial fires, meaning that it once had important ritual significance.

Fire Point Procession Also known as the Chain of Pearls, the Fire Point Procession is composed of no less than 19 conical mounds in a slightly curved line extending from the main trail to the bluffs overlooking the river. This procession of nineteen mounds terminates in a larger conical mound know as the Fire Point Mound. Fire Point Mound One of three large mounds overlooking A view of the Fire Point Procession. This string of 19 the Mississippi at the end of the Fire Point conical mounds terminates in Fire Point Mound, which overlooks the Mississippi River. Procession, Fire Point Mound was found to contain at least 8 burials, including tools made from bird bones and bear teeth, and a copper breastplate, among other things. The end of Fire Point also offers majestic views of both the Mississippi River, the Yellow River, and of the South Unit region. Eight miles further south, Pikes Peak State Park can also be seen, overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. Eagle Rock The remainder of the loop has many more scenic overlooks, including Eagle Rock, around which remains a small stand of original prairie, including spiderwort, lead plant, blue-eyed grass, yellow star grass, and flowering spurge. Just after the Little Bear Mound, the trail branches off to the right (east) towards the river, looping around and returning back to the North Unit Trail, which is why it is also referred to as the "Fire Point Trail Loop". Coming to the confluence of the end of the Fire Point Loop and the North Unit Trail, turn right to continue on to view the remainder of the mounds of the North Unit.

Past the Little Bear Mound, the North Unit Trail turns into the Hanging Rock Trail. Completing the Hanging Rock Trail hike will take up to three hours or more to complete, and there are also several side trails and numerous mounds to be explored, so be sure to be prepared with food, water, reliable clothing, quality footwear and an early start. Great Bear Mound At 138 feet long and 65 feet wide, the Great Bear Mound is the largest known bear mound in the world. It is also unusual in that it lies on its left side, unlike all of the other bear mounds in Effigy Mounds National Monument which all lie on their right sides. This mound also has a very low profile, and is more difficult to see than the Little Bear Mound, though it is certainly more impressive in size, once one discerns its massive proportions.

The Great Bear Mound. (Click for a larger image)

"Baby Bear" Mound Continuing down the Hanging Rock Trail, a short walk off to the right of the trail is a large, linear mound that points to another, smaller bear mound. This bear mound, at 67 feet, is one of the smaller bear effigies in the park, and has affectionately come to be known as the "Baby Bear" Mound. Restored Prairie Area Further down the trail, the hiker will come into an open prairie area containing a series of conical and linear mounds off to the left, as well as the remnants of a lynx mound that was destroyed by farming. These mounds are located in a field that is being restored to its original prairie form through controlled burns, the remnants of the lynx mound becoming briefly visible after each of these burnoffs.

Even further down the North Unit Trail there is another side trail called the Twin Views Side Trail. This trail contains one mound at the end of the trail, and also overlooks the Mississippi River, with a view of Hanging Rock. Views from this trail are also excellent, and when conditions are right, bald eagles can be seen swooping down from the cliffs, hunting for fish.

A short walk off the main trail, Third Scenic View contains five more mounds, including a linear mound, a bear effigy, and three conical mounds. The best view of Hanging Rock can be seen here from here, as well as a good view of the valley below, which was once a large Woodland Period village.

The remainder of the Hanging Rock trail is fairly arduous, and it should only be taken if time and resources allow. Two linear mounds can be seen at the midpoint of the trail, which drops down quickly to a ravine, requiring an additional climb up to the far northern hill which contains Hanging Rock. The trail terminates at Hanging Rock, with a string of 6 conical mounds and a compound mound along the way.

The South Unit, though smaller in scale, has perhaps the most spectacular mound groups in the park, if not in the world. It is divided into two basic areas, the "Compound Mound" and the "Marching Bear Group". The South Unit is a little more remote than is the North Unit. To reach the South Unit from the Visitor's Center, turn left onto Highway 76 and go about a half mile or so, where you will see a sign indicating parking and picnicking facilities on the east (river) side of the road. The entrance to the South Unit is on the west side of the road, so take care as you will need cross Highway 76 to enter. After negotiating the vehicle barrier, hikers must endure a simple but relatively steep trail that climbs for nearly a mile. On the way to the main mound groups, off to the right of the trail, the hiker is treated to two linear mounds and a bear effigy mound, unmarked on the map save for a single green dot. Shortly thereafter, the lush green canopy gives way to open prairie festooned with native grasses and wildflowers. Thie area is also recovered prairie, maintained by controlled burnings by park personnel, as is the prairie area in the North Unit. As Lezendorf explains, "Since the late 1980s, the National Park Service has used controlled or prescribed burns to keep the blackberry, sumac and aspen from overtaking the prairie. Indian grass is the dominant tall grass. Other grasses include big and little bluestem. Blazing star, yellow coneflowers and various asters add color to the prairie in August."7

The trail having leveled off, the hiking becomes more pleasant. After a modest walk through the waving grasses, the hiker is confronted by a fork in the trail. Taking the left fork, the hiker shortly leaves the restored prairie and reenters the forest. About a half-mile's walk brings one to the Compound Mound Group, composed of three substantial structures: Bear Effigy Mound The first mound of the Compound Mound group is a large bear effigy. The bear was and is a powerful animal both in the myth (and the reality) of native American lore, and may have been used as the symbol of a particular family group or clan. This mound is not a burial mound, but was probably used as part of Native American rituals. Bird Effigy Mound Following the bear effigy is a spectacular bird effigy. With its 212-foot wingspan, this effigy mound is the largest bird effigy in the park, and one of the largest in the world. Bird effigies may be intended to represent the Thunderbird, another powerful animal of Native American mythology. This mound, like its bear mound partner, likely also had a primarily ritual purpose. Compound Mound the monument and one of the largest in the world. Click here for a larger version, click here for a larger, outlined Finally, at the end of the trail lies the Compound version. Mound, a huge, 417-foot mound structure. This mound contains 7 conical mounds connected by its linear segments. With a view of the
The 212-foot-wide bird effigy, the largest bird effigy in

river after the leaves have fallen in the autumn, this magnificent structure and its ideal location were likely reserved for an important clan, its great length likely indicating that the clan was a long-lived one, with many generations.

Returning back up the path takes one back to the fork. Take a left to proceed on to the park's most famous mound group, the Marching Bear Group. The path soon ends, merging with an old military road. Built in 1840, the military road was used to carry goods from Fort Crawford, in what is now Prairie du Chien, to Fort Atkinson to the west, but fell into disuse some time later. It remains as a servicable, if somewhat rough trail, now serving as the path to the Marching Bear Group at the top of the hill. Near the top of the trail, after climbing some ways, the military road veers off, and a vast, open canopy beneath and between the outspreading trees reveals a magnificent avenue of mounds, the like of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. The monuments of ancient North America do not compare in glory with the pyramids of Egypt. Not even the massive Monk's Mound at Cahokia, which rivals in size even the Great Pyramid of Giza, can be truly said to be an accomplishment that is truly comparable to that of the Great Pyramid. However, even though the monuments of Egypt and other nations are technically superior and aesthetically more pleasing from classical artistic standards, the subtle, natural glory of the Marching Bear Group, outspread amidst the lush, green canopy of the North American forest, is quite impressive in its own right. The scale of the work that went A view of the Marching Bear Group from the north. into the building of these mounds, and the thoughtful There are a total of 10 bears in the group, stretching over 1/3 of a mile, two of which can be viewed here. Click manner in which they were laid out, is a marked here for a larger version, click here for a larger, outlined achievement in the history of Native American culture.
version.

Walk among the mounds and savor the history of the American Midwest. Effigy Mounds National Monument offers a rare mixture of ancient history and natural beauty that makes for an excellent day trip. Visit during the summer to see the prairie flowers in full bloom, or during the fall to see the explosion of colors in the rich forests of northeastern Iowa. Come for the sightseeing, or just for the exercise. Pets are also allowed, and picnicking facilities are available year-round, so the Monument is also an inexpensive and satisfying family trip destination.

Effigy Mounds National Park is relatively remote, located in the tiny town of Harper's Ferry, Iowa, three miles north of Marquette, Iowa and six miles northwest of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Highway 76 is the best method for traveling through this area, as shown on the maps below: Map of northeast Iowa Map of Marquette, Iowa Map of Effigy Mounds National Monument There are also regional airports in La Crosse (70 miles) and Madison (120 miles), WI; and Dubuque (70 miles) and Cedar Rapids (120 miles), IA. There is no public transportation available.

Effigy Mounds is open daily 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours Memorial Day to Labor Day and weekends in October. The monument is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. The Visitor's Center contains interesting and informative displays, a very good diorama detailing the layout

of the mounds, and a nice gift shop with many books and gifts of historical interest. The Museum in the Visitor's Center is open all year 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - extended hours in summer. Phone: 563-873-3491. The Visitor Center, museum, book sales outlet and auditorium are accessible to wheelchairs. Consult rangers at information desk for access to the hiking trails.

For more information, contact the Effigy Mounds National Monument at 151 HWY 76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146-7519; phone: 563-873-3491; fax: 563-873-3743; email: efmo_superintendent@nps.gov. The best, nearest lodging and dining is in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Consult the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce website, call 1-800-732-1673, or email info@prairieduchien.org for more information.

Dennis Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National Monument (Fort Washington, PA: Eastern National, 2000), 5. 2 Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 9. 3 Table adapted from Effigy Mounds, 8. 4 Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 21. 5 Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 21. 6 Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 101. 7 Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 112.

National Park Service: Effigy Mounds National Monument National Park Service: The Monument National Park Service: Printable Travel Guide Effigy Mounds Area Current Events eparks.com: Effigy Mounds National Monument Bookstore Effigy Mounds National Monument Online Teachers' Guide National Scenic Byways Program: Effigy Mounds National Monument L.L. Bean: Park SearchSM Effigy Mounds National Monument GORP: Effigy Mounds National Monument National Register of Historic Places: Effigy Mounds National Monument

Far Shores: New Investigation Into Ancient Indian Effigy Mounds University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist The Comparative Archaeology Web: Mounds, Monuments, and the Politics of Power: Dimensions of Effigy Mound Function Spirits Made of Earth: The Effigy Mounds - Ho-Chunk Connection Revisited Sorceryn: Earthworks - "Spirits Made of Earth: The Effigy Mounds" Beloit College: Woodland Museum: The Woodland Tradition Minnesota State University eMuseum: Effigy Mound Building High Road to Salvage Archaeology: Effigy Mound Culture Mound and Effigy Mound Cultures Discussion Group Society for American Archaeology

Mississippian Figurines NativeWeb

Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce Prairie du Chien Restaurants Prairie du Chien Lodging Expedia: Lodging in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Prairie du Chien Area Guide WisTravel.com: Prairie du Chien RiverRoads.com: Prairie du Chien and Bridgeport, Wisconsin Map: Prairie du Chien Prairie Dog Blues Festival The Natural Gait

Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National Monument Robert A. Birmingham, Leslie E. Eisenberg Rating: This handy guide tells you everything you need to know about Effigy Mounds National Monument. If you need to find something out about the park, this is the book for you. Available from the Effigy Mounds National Monument bookstore, or from eparks.com. Softcover, 120 pages. (Review by eparks.com) Click here to buy this book.

Exploring Iowa's Past: A Guide to Prehistoric Archaeology Lynn Marie Distilling information from hundreds of archaeological studies, Lynn Marie builds a fascinating story of thirteen thousand years of human achievement, adaptability, resilience, interaction, and survival. This book is indispensable for archaeologists, historians, educators, and everyone interested in the native peoples of Iowa and surrounding regions. (Review by William Green, State Archaeologist of Iowa) Click here to buy this book.

Indian Mounds of Wisconsin Robert A. Birmingham, Leslie E. Eisenberg Throughout history, the mound-builder societies of the many Native American cultures have captured many people's attention. The indigenous mound-building society in Wisconsin, known as the Ho-Chunk, or Winnebago, and the Ioway people were two of the most prolific in the U.S. Because of the increased requests for information, Birmingham and Eisenberg have completed one of the most comprehensive guides to the mounds of Wisconsin. Previously, none of the information on the mounds or their builders was available in a complete volume. Beginning with Wisconsin's early occupants, this work details 2,000 years of history, from pre-mound-builder groups to the modern era. Throughout the book, there are photographs, maps, and detailed drawings of artifacts, people, and the mounds. Included in the appendix is a listing of mound sites open to the public. Indian Mounds is an important and necessary addition to any collection on Native American cultures and the early history of the Midwest. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

Indian Mounds of the Middle Ohio Valley: A Guide to Mounds and Earthworks of the Adena, Hopewell, Cole, and Fort Ancient People Susan L. Woodward, Jerry N. McDonald

Rating: Throughout history, the mound-builder societies of the many Native American cultures have captured many people's attention. The indigenous mound-building society in Wisconsin, known as the Ho-Chunk, or Winnebago, and the Ioway people were two of the most prolific in the U.S. Because of the increased requests for information, Birmingham and Eisenberg have completed one of the most comprehensive guides to the mounds of Wisconsin. Previously, none of the information on the mounds or their builders was available in a complete volume. Beginning with Wisconsin's early occupants, this work details 2,000 years of history, from pre-mound-builder groups to the modern era. Throughout the book, there are photographs, maps, and detailed drawings of artifacts, people, and the mounds. Included in the appendix is a listing of mound sites open to the public. Indian Mounds is an important and necessary addition to any collection on Native American cultures and the early history of the Midwest. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

The Mound Builders Robert Silverberg "Our forebears, finding large, incomprehensible earthworks scattered down the Mississippi Valley, refused to believe they were built by the aborigines who still cluttered up the place and impeded settlement. Mr. Silverberg describes, with gleeful and copious quotation, the nineteenth-century literature of speculation which attributed these monuments to Phoenicians, stray Vikings, the lost tribes of Israel, refugees from Atlantis, an extinct race of giants, and Welshmen. The book, which is charmingly written, ends with a history of the archaeological work which gave the mounds back to the Indians." (Review by The Atlantic Monthly) Click here to buy this book.

Mound Builders of Ancient America: The Archaeology of a Myth Robert Silverberg Click here to buy this book.

The Eagle's Voice: Tales Told by Indian Effigy Mounds Gary J. Maier Gary Maier's The Eagle's Voice: Tales Told By Indian Effigy Mounds is a kind of anthropological detective story based on Maier's research involving a group of about fifty Indian effigy and conical mounts located on the north shore of Lake Mendota, in Madison, Wisconsin. In his explorations Maier developed a new understanding and insight into these structures which had fascinated and puzzled Europeans and Americans from the 1830s down to the present day. Exceptionally "reader friendly", The Eagle's Voice is enthusiastically recommended reading for the non-specialist general reader with an interest in Native American culture in general, and the effigy mounds of Wisconsin in particular. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

Under Your Feet: The Story of the American Mound Builders Blanche King Through archaeological examinations of the mounds of the Mississippi River Valley, Blanche Busey King reconstructs the lives of the prehistoric inhabitants of that region who built these mounds. Chapters are dedicated to the various objects discovered in the mounds, including clothing, fetishes, flints, copper and bone implements, and many of the artifacts are illustrated by photographs included in the text. King also briefly compares the American Mound Builders to the prehistoric inhabitants of Europe. Click here to buy this book.

The Effigy Mound Culture of Wisconsin Chandler W. Rowe Click here to buy this book.

Effigy Mounds: Monuments of the Earth Ellen Osterhaus Click here to buy this book.

The American Woodland Indians Michael G. Johnson, Richard Hook (Illustrator) The Woodland cultural areas of the eastern half of America has been the most important in shaping its history. This volume details the history, culture and conflicts of the 'Woodland' Indians, a name assigned to all the tribes living east of the Mississippi River between the Gulf of Mexico and James Bay, including the Siouans, Iroquians, and Algonkians. In at least three major battles between Indian and Euro-American military forces more soldiers were killed than at the battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, when George Custer lost his command. With the aid of numerous illustrations and photographs, including eight full page colour plates by Richard Hook, this title explores the history and culture of the American Woodland Indians. Click here to buy this book.

Serpent Mound Rusty Crutcher Rating: Evocative music and traditional chants evoke the powerful mystery of the Great Serpent Mound, the first century BC, quarter-mile long Native American animal effigy in southern Ohio. Piano, keyboard, Lakota flute, ocarina and exotic hand percussion subtle blend with on-site environmental recordings. Chants by Jaccarilla Apache Matthew Andrae honor this oldest and largest surviving raised-earth mound in North America. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this CD.

Koyaanisqatsi Philip Glass Rating: Fifteen years after its initial release, Philip Glass's score to Godfrey Reggio's film Koyaanisqatsi is still as timeless as it was meant to be. Glass's epic score, virtually the only sound in this non-narrative movie, accompanied an exhilarating, wordless meditation of images ranging from expansive, slow-motion landscapes to whirling-dervish city scenes shot using time-lapse techniques. Glass's music was a perfect match. The opening chant is still unlike anything Glass has composed, a Tibetan monk operatic growl that set up the foreboding sense of loss the film engenders. Most of the score, however, casts Glass's minimalist themes in orchestral expanses. Bass strings troll the bottom while flutes draw circles in the air. On "The Grid," manic keyboards drive into the night, pounding out the cyclical refrains that are a Glass trademark. When Koyaanisqatsi came out, it seemed opulent with its orchestral forces, but always at the center were the keyboards, reeds, and voice that are Glass's characteristic sound. Koyaanisqatsi means "life out of balance," but Glass's remarkably austere score remains perfectly poised. This newly re-recorded edition adds nearly 30 minutes to the previous CD release with two previously unissued tracks and extended versions of "The Grid" and "Prophecies," the two signpost works of the film. (Review by Amazon.com about the 1998 re-recording of this album) Click here to buy this CD, or here to buy the 1998 re-recording.

Face to face with the mysteries of the Effigy Mounds, modern man can find it difficult to understand the beliefs and motivations that caused our ancient forebears to build these enigmatic structures. Yet the ghosts of America's ancient past still call out to the New World man an adventurer who is restless, in search of new frontiers to conquer to confront the spirit of the mounds.

Driving up Route 76, along the west bank of the Upper Mississippi, one can clearly feel modernity gradually slip away, giving place to the ancient and unknown. Despite the comforting concreteness of the expressway, the illusory permanence of everyday life seems to melt away as one passes out of the sprawling Iowa farmlands and plunges deeper and deeper into the vast woodlands of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. Traveling in the midst of autumn, we slipped down the thin ribbon of road that lay between the river and the stark cliffs that overlook its passage. The setting seemed to speak of old things, of dead things, of ancient memories bound into the layered cliffs overlooking the Father of Waters.

The scenic views of autumn foliage were spectacular. Distracted by the colors, we nearly missed the entrance to the Effigy Mounds National Monument (EFMO), which appeared suddenly after a bend in this less-traveled road. Turning into the parking lot, we encountered a low, unassuming building, which serves as the park's visitor's center. Inside the center was a small museum that was surprisingly good, replete with numerous examples of pottery, arrowheads and spearheads, as well as a variety of related Native American artifacts that gave us a real sense of how our ancient forebears lived, worked, thought and died centuries ago. The museum also features an excellent scale model of the mounds, which gave us a really good understanding of the overall layout of the area. After the usual video introduction to the park and its features, we set out on the North Unit trail. It was a crisp autumn day, with a brisk wind blowing through the trees. Soon after we set out on the trail, we encountered just off to the right of the trail a group of three prominent mounds, known as "Three Mound Group", gently rolling into the landscape. These mounds, believed to be as much as 2,000 years old, apparently hosted numerous artifacts, including a copper breastplate and shells that had originated in the Gulf Coast. This discovery was yet further proof of An exhibit of Native ancient trade networks that had at one American artifacts on display in the Effigy time been spread out many hundreds, Mounds National Monument even thousands of miles across the museum including pottery, American Midwest, stretching to both arrowheads, spearheads and oceans and what is now known as the much more. Gulf of Mexico. As we saw in Part I, The Woodland Period in which these mounds were built was a time of extensive trading all over North America, particularly along the Mississippi, which has served as a major trade route for most of the time that man has occupied the American Midwest.
The Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor's Center.

Two of a set of three conical mounds just a short walk from the Visitor's Center. Archaeologists found several bundle burials and many artifacts inside these mounds, including a copper breastplate and numerous shells native to America's Gulf Coast, many hundreds of miles away.

After having taken a few moments to admire the natural beauty of these simple mounds, we began our upward ascent to the clifftops on which the majority of the mounds wait silently. The climb was at first gentle, a pleasant pathway passing cleanly through a natural cathedral of autumn colors. After a short, pleasant walk, however, the path became decidedly more steep, zigzagging up the side of the cliff face. Though somewhat difficult, this upward climb was more challenging than exhausting, but still proved to be the most difficult part of the North Unit trail. At the crest of the hill, the path flattened out substantially, and the remainder of the trail proved to be very pleasant. After only a brief walk, we spotted another large mound structure off to the left of this trail. This one, unlike the previous group of mounds, appeared to be long and straight.
A natural cathedral of autumn colors awaits the fall traveler.

Despite the damage time and erosion had done to flatten it out, a closer look revealed that this long, thin mound was punctuated with three wider sections, making it a classic "compound mound". A compound mound is essentially a series of conical mounds created in line with each other, connected together by a thinner linear mound structure. The exact reason as to why the builders had decided to build mounds in this fashion still eludes us, though the most likely reason is to connect several family burials together. Another possible conclusion that, to my knowledge, has not been explored in the literature, is that the mounds are arranged to reflect

Native plantlife flowers abundantly along the well-defined pathways.

constellations in the night sky. It is an established fact that most all ancient religion had its roots in astronomy and astral worship, and Native American religions were no exception. Perhaps, as we do today, Native Americans memorized the constellations by setting them down in a more permanent form. Though we today use paper, computer hard drives and CD-ROMs to store our knowledge, the ancient Native Americans used what may have used what they had at hand dirt and sweat to form permanent recordings of their constellations. Sun and astral worship were, in fact, known among the moundbuilders. In 1994, David Lee Smith, tribal historian and cultural preservation officer of the Winnebago Tribe (Ho-Chunk) of Nebraska, visited the mounds and commented on their meaning in their religious teachings:
The North Unit Trail compound mound, one of two mounds of this type in the North Unit. These mounds sometime have burials, but not always, leading some to believe that they served religious, social and/or political functions.

Ursa Major, "The Great Bear" from Johannes Hevelius' Uranographia (1690). Seeing patterns in the constellations is typical of all ancient cultures, as the stars were once the objects of worship worldwide. The bear mounds may also be a remembrance of the ancient concept of the bear in the sky, known to western traditions as Ursa Major. Compound mounds might also serve to imitate constellations in the sky to which the moundbuilders wished to create permanent memorials, much in the same way we create star maps today, "connecting the dots" between the stars to identify the constellation. Images adapted from Chandra X-Ray Observatory Center.

Effigy mounds are one of the most sacred religious sites for the Winnebago or Ho-Chunk Tribe. These effigies representing the bear, the birds, and the snake were constructed by the Winnebago over 1,500 years ago. These mounds are a story and prophecy told in dirt. Winnebago oral tradition tells us of our migration out of the southeast with other Siouan tribes a long time ago. To preserve this history, holy people began the construction of the Walking Bear Mounds and related mounds. Four times a year, during the summer and winter solstices and the fall and spring equinoxes, major ceremonies were held on top of the mounds. Only medicine men of the Bear, Thunder, and Snake were allowed to perform religious ceremonies. They represented the air, the earth, and the water. Sacred fire was brought in by one of the other clan medicine men, usually the Elk clan.... From the snake or linear mounds, medicine men read the future in the stars and prophecies were told.... The Winnebago people [also] worshipped the power of the sun, for it represented the all Holy one.1 So, the true identity of the linear mounds, is revealed: they represent snakes. Moreover, the linear mounds, and probably the compound mounds, were used by the shamans of the Bear, Thunderbird and Snake clans to "read the future in the stars" and tell prophecies. Underestimated and misunderstood, the linear and compound mounds may have actually held the most important roles of all in the religion of the ancient moundbuilders, and they apparently still hold the keys to understanding their mysterious religious beliefs.

Continuing on down the path, we soon came upon the "Little Bear Mound". This low mound was nicely outlined with gravel, making its outline easy to see. This mound was much more impressive than the compound mounds. It was easy to see that, before time and erosion had taken their toll, that this simple monument would have been an impressive sight at night, with the sacred fire burning at its heart.

The "Little Bear" Mound. This mound contained no burials, but had charcoal remains around area where the heart would be, indicating that it once served a ritual purpose.

Just to the right of the Little Bear Mound was a long string of numerous conical mounds stretching all the way to the edge of the cliff. Called the "Fire Point Procession", this line of 19 mounds was so named because of the presence of charred clay found within the mounds. Apparently, these mounds also hosted fires at some point, which must have been quite a sight. This "string of pearls" alight at night would have formed a cathedral of light connecting the Little Bear Mound to the river. Instead of bypassing the Fire Point Trail, we decided instead to follow the path of those who came before us in this American continent. The trail meandered around the uneven line of mounds, which varied from substantial in size to barely noticeable. The Fire Point Mound at the end was unmistakable, however, and the reason for placing the most prominent mound there was clear. Not unlike our modern cemeteries, this was definitely a tomb with a view, perfectly appropriate for a clan chieftain to be laid to rest. Indeed, even the most exclusive cemeteries would be hard put to beat such an impressive view.

The Fire Point Procession series of mounds. These mounds, that were likely part of a late-night ritual, lead from the Little Bear Mound to the cliff's edge.

We then took the Fire Trail Loop around back to the main North Unit trail, passing Eagle Rock along the way with its excellent view of the Yellow River. We passed again the compound mounds and the Little Bear Mound and, after a short walk, came upon a truly vast effigy mound the "Great Bear Mound". The Great Bear Mound was nearly twice the size of the Little Bear Mound, and was followed by a string of The Fire Point Mound is the largest of the Fire Point Procession, and affords an conical and linear mounds. Also, just off the trail to the right was overlook of the river. hidden a conical, linear and a bear effigy mound, which would have been invisible were it not for creative mowing on the part of the groundskeepers.

A view of the Mississippi from Fire Point Mound.

Each group of mounds seemed like another mini-adventure, an exploration into who and what went before us in history. Following the trail of conical and linear mounds that spread out north from the Great Bear Mound seemed like we were following a trail of clues in a search to uncover a mystery. Perhaps the mounds were built by the ancient Native Americans in an attempt to understand the mysterious world in which they lived, an attempt to reconcile the dichotomy of heaven and earth by trying to emulate heaven on earth in the form of mound structures. If true, this would make the religion of the moundbuilders typical of the period in which they lived. Some believe that the ancient Egyptians arranged the pyramids of Giza in such a way as to emulate the constellation of Orion, and aligned internal chambers within the Great Pyramid to aim at certain stars at certain times in history. Other ancient peoples, such as the Maya, clearly built their pyramids in order to mirror the movements of the sun, moon, stars, and planets. The ancient Britons built Stonehenge as a vast stone calendar in order to track the movements of their gods, the planets, and the ancient Cahokians used a "Woodhenge" to determine the days and the seasons of the year to reap, sow, and give thanks to their god, the sun. In retrospect, in light of the astral religions of the ancient world, it would be unusual for at least some of the mounds to not have some sort of heavenly significance.

A secondary bear mound, "off the beaten path", near the Great Bear Mound. Many of the mounds would be nearly invisible if the groundskeepers did not allow grass and shrubs to grow freely on their surface. For reference, the rear leg is closest to the camera.

We completed the North Unit trail, passing through the Twin Views area, and on to the Third Scenic The Third Scenic View mound group, View, which contained linear, conical and a bear effigy mound. We giving a view of the river and of Hanging opted not to go on to Hanging Rock, as the day was moving along, and Rock. This mound group has conical, linear, and a bear effigy mound. we wanted to save some time and energy for the South Unit Trail, which promised to have some of the most interesting mounds of all. The South Unit trail is actually a short drive from the North Unit trail, about a half mile south. Nestled in a cave of autumn colors, the entrance to the South Unit Trail was somewhat less inviting than that of the North Unit. However, the South Unit, though somewhat obscure, is perhaps the more interesting of the two hikes, and contains some of the most spectacular mound groups in the world. Parking for the South Unit is on the west side of Route 76, so we had to cross the street, which was a bit disconcerting. The entrance was also barred by a gate that disallowed vehicle traffic, but access was still The entrance to the South Unit Trail, about allowed on foot, so we proceeded apace around the gate. What followed a half mile south of the North Unit trail. was a fairly steep and moderately difficult hike that did not level off for Parking for the South Unit Trail is on the west side of the street, whereas the trail nearly half a mile. Along the way, there was an additional bear effigy and linear mound off to the right side of the path that had only been itself is on the east side. marked on the map with a single dot. Surprised, I realized that more unmarked trails and mounds may await the adventurous explorer with more time to spend than we had that day.

The beginning of the procession of conical and linear mounds leading north from the Great Bear Mound. These likely were used as part of religious rituals as were the Fire Point Procession mounds.

Soon after the path had leveled off, we came to a fairly large area of prairie that had been restored by the park service. In the midst of the tall prairie, the path forked, one path heading east towards the huge Compound Mound. We decided to proceed forward and see the Marching Bear Group, as it was the park's premiere attraction, and because we had begun to feel the fatigue of hiking and the bite of a late autumn cold snap. A short walk past the fork, the trail converged with the old military road, which was fairly rough and steep. After another 20-minute hike up the rough military road, the path diverged from the road and lead us directly to the Marching Bear Group, which manifested itself to us at first glance as a grand vista of open trees and lush, green mounds stretching out almost to the limits of our vision.

The Marching Bear Group, according to the Winnebago tribe, who claim descent from the moundbuilders, was created in order to record the journey that their ancestors had made from the southwest in ancient times. These bears may have represented different sub-clans within the bear tribe, or perhaps a new bear was built to represent each new generation of the bear clan. It may also be that the Marching Bear Group has an astronomical meaning over and above that of the historical and familial one. It may have been created,

The Restored Prairie in the midst of the South Unit Trail. The trail forks east to provide easy access to the huge Compound Mound and two large effigy mounds.

for example, as an earthly representation of the Milky Way, which the moundbuilders may have seen as the great place in the sky where the bear spirits walk, the place where their ancestors went when they died. This type of idea was typical of ancient religion but, unfortunately, we can only speculate on the more esoteric meanings of the mounds, as what data we have on the subject is sadly limited. As a result, the dominant theory behind the purpose of the mounds has been basically that the effigy mounds were metaphorical expressions of the culture's religious beliefs. In 1969, Clark Mallam, the head of nearby Two of the more prominent mounds Luther College's Anthopology Department made it one of his life goals mounds in the Marching Bear Group. The Marching Bear Group is comprised of 10 to unlock the puzzle of the effigy mounds:
bears, two linear mounds, and 3 Thunderbirds. Image from National Park Service: Effigy Mounds National Monument.

To Mallam, the effigy mounds were 'metaphorical expressions of the culture's religious beliefs.' He considered the mounds and rockshelters sacred places and spent many hours alone at the sites searching for hidden meanings of the petroglyphs and effigy-shaped mounds. Since effigy mounds contained few artifacts, Mallam believed that more could be learned by studying the pattern of the mounds and the belief systems of Native Americans than by excavating the mounds. Mallam believed that each complex of effigy mounds, such as the Marching Bear Group, was constructed by a distinct social group that returned periodically to participate in ceremonies to renew their ties to the earth and insure the continued cycles of life and the regeneration of plants and animals. The use of animal imagery connected the cultural and natural world of the social group and maintained a harmony and balance essential for the survival of group members. Mallam's theories blended together the science of archaeology with Native American religion. He believed the animal-shaped mounds were expressions of the integration of natural, social and cosmological worlds of the moundbuilders. He suggested 'the effigies appear to be integrated with the earth while at the same time simultaneously emerge from it the mounds symbolize the cyclical regularity of life itself, ever changing, always the same, constantly being reborn'.2

So, the general belief to this point, which is probably the correct one, is that the moundbuilders built their mounds as an expression of solidarity with the natural world they saw around them. Though there may

have been additional meanings, as alluded to in the statements made by the Winnebago tribe regarding sun and star worship, we may never know what they were as the moundbuilders have long since disappeared off the world stage as a coherent social entity. Marveling at the simple beauty of the Marching Bear Group, spread out under the partial canopy of the northeast Iowa forest, we stopped many times to contemplate the meaning of the mounds. One advantage to visiting archaeological sites that the armchair archaeologist misses out on is the experiential aspect of "being there" in the same millieu that the moundbuilders lived in. One feels the beauty of nature in a very real way, and even the self-satisfied New World man, with his low-interest mortgage and "safe" 401(k) plan, can begin to sense a feeling of his incompleteness when confronted by the down-to-earth lifestyle of the ancient Americans. Perhaps if more people gave more attention to the simpler things in life, to the importance of living naturally, things would The two Thunderbird mounds that cap off be a lot easier for everyone. the Marching Bear Mounds group. All the After we reached the end of the bears and spotted the hazy outlines of the Thunderbird effigies, we returned the way we came, taking a quick detour down the east fork to check out at the huge Compound Mound and the nearby effigy mounds. What purpose did these serve? Surely they were not merely ornamentation, but were left as reminders to later generations of the people who once dominated the Midwest. The once mighty and influential Woodland Period cultures have completely disappeared, leaving only scattered tribes whose memories of their golden age are hazy at best. Was it the coming of the white man, intertribal warfare, or a combination of factors that caused the breakup of the civilization of the Woodland Period? We may never know. Hopefully the New World man will learn from history and not make the same mistakes that our ancient predecessors on this American continent made that led to their destruction. Sticking to principles, to traditions are what kept the Woodland Period Indians healthy and prosperous for over 700 years. Though theirs was hardly a perfect life, by learning from their simpler lifeways, we may be able to find ways to help our blended culture survive and prosper over the long term. Otherwise, if we do not learn from these our ancient predecessors in the American continent, we may be doomed to repeat their mistakes.
Thunderbird mounds in EFMO face towards the river, whereas all but one bear mound face downriver. To this day, their exact meaning remains a mystery.

Walk among the mounds and savor the history of the American Midwest. Effigy Mounds National Monument offers a rare mixture of ancient history and natural beauty that makes for an excellent day trip. Visit during the summer to see the prairie flowers in full bloom, or during the fall to see the explosion of colors in the rich forests of northeastern Iowa. Come for the sightseeing, or just for the exercise. Pets are also allowed, and picnicking facilities are available year-round, so the Monument is also an inexpensive and satisfying family trip destination.

Effigy Mounds National Park is relatively remote, located in the tiny town of Harper's Ferry, Iowa, three miles north of Marquette, Iowa and six miles northwest of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Highway 76 is the best method for traveling through this area, as shown on the maps below: Map of northeast Iowa Map of Effigy Mounds National Monument There are also regional airports in La Crosse (70 miles) and Madison (120 miles), WI; and Dubuque (70 miles) and Cedar Rapids (120 miles), IA. There is no public transportation available.

Effigy Mounds is open daily 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours Memorial Day to Labor Day and weekends in October. The monument is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. The Visitor's Center contains interesting and informative displays, a very good diorama detailing the layout of the mounds, and a nice gift shop with many books and gifts of historical interest. The Museum in the Visitor's Center is open all year 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - extended hours in summer. Phone: 563-873-3491. The Visitor Center, museum, book sales outlet and auditorium are accessible to wheelchairs. Consult rangers at information desk for access to the hiking trails.

For more information, contact the Effigy Mounds National Monument at 151 HWY 76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146-7519; phone: 563-873-3491; fax: 563-873-3743; email: efmo_superintendent@nps.gov. The best, nearest lodging and dining is in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Consult the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce website, call 1-800-732-1673, or email info@prairieduchien.org for more information.

Dennis Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National Monument (Fort Washington, PA: Eastern National, 2000), 96-97. 2 Dennis Lezendorf, Effigy Mounds, 93.

Far Shores: New Investigation Into Ancient Indian Effigy Mounds University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist: Ancient Mounds in Iowa University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist: A Brief Culture History of Iowa University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist: The Oneota Culture LAKOTA STAR KNOWLEDGE Chandra X-Ray Observatory: Ursa Major (big bear) Astronomy Boy: Constellation Portraits: Ursa Major and Canes Venatici St. Cloud State: Ursa Major: The Big Dipper or The Great Bear The Comparative Archaeology Web: Mounds, Monuments, and the Politics of Power: Dimensions of Effigy Mound Function Spirits Made of Earth: The Effigy Mounds - Ho-Chunk Connection Revisited Sorceryn: Earthworks - "Spirits Made of Earth: The Effigy Mounds" Beloit College: Woodland Museum: The Woodland Tradition Minnesota State University eMuseum: Effigy Mound Building High Road to Salvage Archaeology: Effigy Mound Culture Mound and Effigy Mound Cultures Discussion Group Society for American Archaeology Mississippian Figurines NativeWeb

National Park Service: Effigy Mounds National Monument National Park Service: The Monument

National Park Service: Printable Travel Guide Effigy Mounds Area Current Events eparks.com: Effigy Mounds National Monument Bookstore Effigy Mounds National Monument Online Teachers' Guide National Scenic Byways Program: Effigy Mounds National Monument L.L. Bean: Park SearchSM Effigy Mounds National Monument GORP: Effigy Mounds National Monument National Register of Historic Places: Effigy Mounds National Monument

Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce Prairie du Chien Restaurants Prairie du Chien Lodging Expedia: Lodging in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin Prairie du Chien Area Guide WisTravel.com: Prairie du Chien RiverRoads.com: Prairie du Chien and Bridgeport, Wisconsin Map: Prairie du Chien Prairie Dog Blues Festival The Natural Gait

Effigy Mounds: A Guide to Effigy Mounds National Monument Robert A. Birmingham, Leslie E. Eisenberg Rating: This handy guide tells you everything you need to know about Effigy Mounds National Monument. If you need to find something out about the park, this is the book for you. Available from the Effigy Mounds National Monument bookstore, or from eparks.com. Softcover, 120 pages. (Review by eparks.com) Click here to buy this book.

Exploring Iowa's Past: A Guide to Prehistoric Archaeology Lynn Marie Distilling information from hundreds of archaeological studies, Lynn Marie builds a fascinating story of thirteen thousand years of human achievement, adaptability, resilience, interaction, and survival. This book is indispensable for archaeologists, historians, educators, and everyone interested in the native peoples of Iowa and surrounding regions. (Review by William Green, State Archaeologist of Iowa) Click here to buy this book.

Indian Mounds of Wisconsin Robert A. Birmingham, Leslie E. Eisenberg Throughout history, the mound-builder societies of the many Native American cultures have captured many people's attention. The indigenous mound-building society in Wisconsin, known as the Ho-Chunk, or Winnebago, and the Ioway people were two of the most prolific in the U.S. Because of the increased requests for information, Birmingham and Eisenberg have completed one of the most comprehensive guides to the mounds of Wisconsin. Previously, none of the information on the mounds or their builders was available in a complete volume. Beginning with Wisconsin's early occupants, this work details 2,000 years of history, from pre-mound-builder groups to the modern era. Throughout the book, there are photographs, maps, and detailed drawings of artifacts, people, and the mounds. Included in the appendix is

a listing of mound sites open to the public. Indian Mounds is an important and necessary addition to any collection on Native American cultures and the early history of the Midwest. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

Indian Mounds of the Middle Ohio Valley: A Guide to Mounds and Earthworks of the Adena, Hopewell, Cole, and Fort Ancient People Susan L. Woodward, Jerry N. McDonald Rating: Throughout history, the mound-builder societies of the many Native American cultures have captured many people's attention. The indigenous mound-building society in Wisconsin, known as the Ho-Chunk, or Winnebago, and the Ioway people were two of the most prolific in the U.S. Because of the increased requests for information, Birmingham and Eisenberg have completed one of the most comprehensive guides to the mounds of Wisconsin. Previously, none of the information on the mounds or their builders was available in a complete volume. Beginning with Wisconsin's early occupants, this work details 2,000 years of history, from pre-mound-builder groups to the modern era. Throughout the book, there are photographs, maps, and detailed drawings of artifacts, people, and the mounds. Included in the appendix is a listing of mound sites open to the public. Indian Mounds is an important and necessary addition to any collection on Native American cultures and the early history of the Midwest. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

The Mound Builders Robert Silverberg "Our forebears, finding large, incomprehensible earthworks scattered down the Mississippi Valley, refused to believe they were built by the aborigines who still cluttered up the place and impeded settlement. Mr. Silverberg describes, with gleeful and copious quotation, the nineteenth-century literature of speculation which attributed these monuments to Phoenicians, stray Vikings, the lost tribes of Israel, refugees from Atlantis, an extinct race of giants, and Welshmen. The book, which is charmingly written, ends with a history of the archaeological work which gave the mounds back to the Indians." (Review by The Atlantic Monthly) Click here to buy this book.

Mound Builders of Ancient America: The Archaeology of a Myth Robert Silverberg Click here to buy this book.

The Eagle's Voice: Tales Told by Indian Effigy Mounds Gary J. Maier Gary Maier's The Eagle's Voice: Tales Told By Indian Effigy Mounds is a kind of anthropological detective story based on Maier's research involving a group of about fifty Indian effigy and conical mounts located on the north shore of Lake Mendota, in Madison, Wisconsin. In his explorations Maier developed a new understanding and insight into these structures which had fascinated and puzzled Europeans and Americans from the 1830s down to the present day. Exceptionally "reader friendly", The Eagle's Voice is enthusiastically recommended reading for the non-specialist general reader with an interest in Native American culture in general, and the effigy mounds of Wisconsin in particular. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this book.

Under Your Feet: The Story of the American Mound Builders Blanche King Through archaeological examinations of the mounds of the Mississippi River Valley, Blanche Busey King reconstructs the lives of the prehistoric inhabitants of that region who built these mounds. Chapters are

dedicated to the various objects discovered in the mounds, including clothing, fetishes, flints, copper and bone implements, and many of the artifacts are illustrated by photographs included in the text. King also briefly compares the American Mound Builders to the prehistoric inhabitants of Europe. Click here to buy this book.

The Effigy Mound Culture of Wisconsin Chandler W. Rowe Click here to buy this book.

Effigy Mounds: Monuments of the Earth Ellen Osterhaus Click here to buy this book.

The American Woodland Indians Michael G. Johnson, Richard Hook (Illustrator) The Woodland cultural areas of the eastern half of America has been the most important in shaping its history. This volume details the history, culture and conflicts of the 'Woodland' Indians, a name assigned to all the tribes living east of the Mississippi River between the Gulf of Mexico and James Bay, including the Siouans, Iroquians, and Algonkians. In at least three major battles between Indian and Euro-American military forces more soldiers were killed than at the battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, when George Custer lost his command. With the aid of numerous illustrations and photographs, including eight full page colour plates by Richard Hook, this title explores the history and culture of the American Woodland Indians. Click here to buy this book.

Serpent Mound Rusty Crutcher Rating: Evocative music and traditional chants evoke the powerful mystery of the Great Serpent Mound, the first century BC, quarter-mile long Native American animal effigy in southern Ohio. Piano, keyboard, Lakota flute, ocarina and exotic hand percussion subtle blend with on-site environmental recordings. Chants by Jaccarilla Apache Matthew Andrae honor this oldest and largest surviving raised-earth mound in North America. (Review by Amazon.com) Click here to buy this CD.

Koyaanisqatsi Philip Glass Rating: Fifteen years after its initial release, Philip Glass's score to Godfrey Reggio's film Koyaanisqatsi is still as timeless as it was meant to be. Glass's epic score, virtually the only sound in this non-narrative movie, accompanied an exhilarating, wordless meditation of images ranging from expansive, slow-motion landscapes to whirling-dervish city scenes shot using time-lapse techniques. Glass's music was a perfect match. The opening chant is still unlike anything Glass has composed, a Tibetan monk operatic growl that set up the foreboding sense of loss the film engenders. Most of the score, however, casts Glass's minimalist themes in orchestral expanses. Bass strings troll the bottom while flutes draw circles in the air. On "The Grid," manic keyboards drive into the night, pounding out the cyclical refrains that are a Glass trademark. When Koyaanisqatsi came out, it seemed opulent with its orchestral forces, but always at the center were

the keyboards, reeds, and voice that are Glass's characteristic sound. Koyaanisqatsi means "life out of balance," but Glass's remarkably austere score remains perfectly poised. This newly re-recorded edition adds nearly 30 minutes to the previous CD release with two previously unissued tracks and extended versions of "The Grid" and "Prophecies," the two signpost works of the film. (Review by Amazon.com about the 1998 re-recording of this album) Click here to buy this CD, or here to buy the 1998 re-recording.